Women's Health Continence & Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Conditions Treated:

Incontinence

Incontinence is the involuntary loss of urine or stool. Pelvic floor weakness resulting in a loss of muscular support for the bladder, uterus or rectum may be the cause. Incontinence of urine may be termed stress, urge or mixed. Treatment options include electrical stimulation, biofeedback and exercise, with or without vaginal weights. Post prostatectomy incontinence is also treated.

Prolapse

When the bladder, uterus or rectum fall below the level of the pelvic floor sling, the muscular, fascial and ligamentous support system are insufficient and women feel a heaviness, pain or lump sensation. Treatment may include pelvic floor and core strengthening, posture and body mechanics training to educate and retrain these muscles to either prevent surgery or as a post-surgical therapy to prevent prolapse from re-occurring.

Musculoskeletal dysfunctions of pregnancy and postpartum (orthopedic and high risk)

Pregnant women may suffer from pain or aching in the back or shoulder blades, rib cage, groin area or wrists due to changes in posture, weight or hormonal factors. Not only are these women more susceptible to injury during pregnancy, but related orthopedic problems may persist or begin following pregnancy.

Maternity supports, manual therapy, strengthening or retraining techniques are typical treatments. For a woman in a high risk pregnancy, bed rest is often necessary. The physical therapist designs a program of exercises, positioning and relaxation into the overall program.

Osteoporosis and compression fractures

Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become thin and brittle and break more easily. Therapy programs include instruction in proper body mechanics, posture and exercise, recommendations for braces or orthotics and treatments like moist heat and electrical stimulation to relieve pain.

Pelvic pain

Pelvic floor tension or pain in the sling of muscles which support the bladder, uterus and rectum can be caused by muscle, joint or nerve problems. The patient may have difficulty sitting, pain during intercourse or pain in the hips or lower abdomen. Rehabilitation includes pelvic floor relaxation training, manual therapy, and bio-feedback.

Lymphedema

Lymphedema is a persistent swelling of the arm or leg. It may occur after mastectomy, when lymph nodes are damaged or removed, or following infection or scar formation which blocks lymphatic fluid flow.

Lymphedema may occur weeks, months or years after the initial injury. Exercise, massage, and custom-made compression bandaging and compression garments are among the treatment choices.

If you think you may benefit from physical therapy for one of these conditions, ask your physician to refer you. Insurance payment varies, so check your individual policy for coverage.